Awareness Days

During the month of March, we celebrate National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month to recognize and support the many individuals who live with Cerebral Palsy (CP). CP is a permanent physical disability impacting a person’s mobility and muscle strength. Early intervention, therapies, use of Botox and even surgeries can help a person’s ability to deal with pain management and functionality in daily life. CanChild states that approximately 1 out of every 400 individuals in Canada are diagnosed with CP, and it is the most common physical disability in children.

In celebration of Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, family members of clients shared their experiences of living with a loved one with CP through the creative expressions of poems and quotes.

A poem written by Grandview Kids sibling, Cyria-Amin

It’s not a disease but a disability.

It’s not always fun, but it is accepted by some. 

They think she’s contagious

Staring strangely sadly, thinking poor child.

They don’t know the struggles, the fun, the learning.

Sometimes I do wish she could do what we can.

But I know she’s with us for a reason. 

The reason for this is clear to us, though unknown to others.

It’s as profound as love and unwavering care.

She can’t get around herself, leaning on others for assistance. 

Sometimes she can express her feelings; other times it’s a guessing game.

Walking, talking, running all the things she can’t do,

Walking, talking, running all the things I can do.

Her comprehension surpasses that of most, and it stands as her greatest strength. 

No matter how hard I try, my understanding will never quite measure up to hers.

Pity they give, not what she needs.

Understanding they don’t give, that’s what she needs.

Each day spent with her is nothing short of extraordinary. 

For her, every day is an exhilarating adventure,

Brimming with endless possibilities.

A brother, a sister, a mother, a father, 

All who care and all who understand. 

Aunts, Uncles, Cousins all by her side

Even through the toughest of times.

Invitations come and go, yet only a few can truly be accepted.

 We are always left finding a way to ensure she is included, for she is never left behind.

Inclusion seems as if is a difficult thing 

Yet it’s a mere adjustment none want to commit to.

But for her

It’s her right for quality of life

Yet no one seems to understand the battles fought every day to be accepted.

Any meal of the day, breakfast, lunch, dinner when she can’t eat,

We say we can’t eat either, so she’s not left out. 

Sometimes there are ups and downs, frights and delights.

Could be a milestone or an emergency; no one knows. 

When plagued by illness or enduring discomfort,
Every moment feels like an unbearable struggle.

Restless. Risky. Painful. Spasms

This is how these nights sometimes feel.

You can not understand the financial struggles.

The ones which come when meeting every factor contributing to a better quality of life.

Sure, equipment ain’t cheap

But the love, the smiles, and pain-free days she receives is worth every penny invested.

The government fails to grasp the complexities of cerebral palsy.

Funding is given, but it’s far from being diverse and inclusive 

Even though they believe it to be.

This Is Life Living with Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy Is.

– Cyria-Amin H.

My Brain

My brain, my brain, so much pain. It can feel me when I am mad, sad, happy, exited and joyful. When I am tired my brain will tell me with a yawn. When I am hungry my brain will tell me by my tummy growling. When I am sick my brain will tell me by making me hot. My brain, my brain. We learn through education and talk with communication.

We all know that brains work similar but in this case my sister’s brain works differently. When she was born her brain and body did not get enough oxygen. Now she has cerebral palsy also known as CP. 

– Cyria-Amin H.

A message from Grandview Kids parent, Abby

“Wesley was born a micro-preemie and spent his first six months of life in-hospital after experiencing a brain bleed that caused extensive brain damage. We were told to expect that he would never be able to talk, feed orally or walk. He was diagnosed with level 3/4 Spastic Diplegia Cerebral Palsy (CP) near his second birthday. He missed many milestones as an infant, but we learned that with hard work and the right support system, he would reach many of his goals on his own time.

Having a CP diagnosis meant many hours spent in physiotherapy and occupational therapy sessions, both privately and through Children’s Treatment Centres, and then continuing the exercises at home throughout the week. We relocated and started our Grandview Kids journey in 2019 where we met some fantastic therapists who supported our goals. He was able to gain enough strength to qualify for Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) surgery at SickKids Hospital in 2021, followed by extensive rehab at both Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital and Grandview Kids.

Today, Wesley’s CP level is considered a 2/3, and he can use a variety of walking aids, including a wheelchair, walker, and sometimes even canes. He gets Botox shots every few months at Grandview Kids to alleviate extra muscle tightness and continues to face challenges with determination and grit. He is in a portable classroom this year and has become great at advocating for his needs to be as independent as possible. We know that there will always be barriers to accessibility, but Wes continues to learn that he must use his voice to pave the path for himself and others.” – Abby

A message from Grandview Kids parent, Kathy

“Our son, Ethan, started with Grandview when he was 10 months old. He was born prematurely and had missed every milestone. At his first birthday, he couldn’t sit unsupported. Ethan was never expected to be able to walk. However, at six years old, after years of physiotherapy and a whole lot of personal grit, he’s not only walking but also running and jumping.

Even now, Ethan continues to surpass our expectations. This past November, he participated in his first inclusive athletic event, the Durham Regional Police Children’s Games. Not only did he love it, but he also won Male Athlete of the Year. We are looking forward to this spring, when Ethan will try adaptive soccer and baseball.

Ethan’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, dedication, and the unwavering support of those who believe in him. As he takes on new adventures in sports and beyond, we know he will continue to defy expectations and inspire everyone around him. For Ethan, the possibilities are endless.” – Kath

Written by Ambassador Advisor and Grandview Kids parent, Abby V.

March is national epilepsy awareness month in Canada, and Grandview Kids hopes to encourage people to acknowledge and understand the disorder and support dismantling the misconceptions, discrimination and isolation facing those who live with epilepsy.

At eight months of age, Grandview Kid Kiara was diagnosed with infantile spasms, which later developed into epilepsy. The seizures occurred when she awoke from sleep, manifesting as uncontrollable body “twitching” and irregular eye movement that could last up to five minutes, with more than 200 spasm clusters. The severity of the seizures required strong medication to stop them. Initially, Kiara was prescribed Vigabatrin, but when it proved ineffective, Levetiracetam was introduced, and Vigabatrin was gradually reduced. Her parents, uncertain about her future, feared seizures would become a daily struggle. Remarkably, Kiara remained seizure-free for nearly five years.

Kiara posing in a photoshoot at Grandview Kids

However, one day Kiara experienced a “breakthrough seizure” that lasted an hour. It was summer, and the family had just finished dinner and was relaxing at home when Kiara suddenly began to scream in pain and became inconsolable. Her parents, initially thinking it was due to fatigue, put her to bed. But when her father, Mahendra, checked on her, he noticed she had wet the bed and was twitching and unresponsive. An ambulance was called, and paramedics administered rescue medication, but the seizures continued until they reached the hospital.

Just four months later, Kiara had another seizure. This time, although conscious, she was unable to speak, and half of her body was paralyzed, with her right side completely shut down. During the 20-minute wait for an ambulance, Kiara experienced a seizure lasting two and a half hours, with twitching and foaming at the mouth. Despite several doses of rescue medication, her seizures persisted. It was then decided that Kiara would need an additional daily medication, Clobazam, to help control the seizures.

It has been more than two years since Kiara’s last seizure. Since her first major seizure occurred while she slept, Kiara now co-sleeps with her mother, Nerissa, to ensure her safety. Though she is seizure-free, the family remains vigilant. Unfamiliar body movements, headaches, or even extreme weather (heat or cold) require extra caution. Kiara’s spasms and seizures presented differently, making it difficult to identify triggers and further complicating prevention.

Watching a child in pain and feeling helpless is a trauma no parent should endure. The experience of being a “medical parent” without clear guidelines or treatment plans is equally frightening. Nerissa credits her husband for being a voice of reason, offering advice that helps ground her when the demands of medical parenting become overwhelming.

“You can’t stop life. You can’t prevent these things. You have to go with the flow. Live life and enjoy [Kiara] being healthy now. You can’t stop her growth and her life because of [our] worries and overprotectiveness. Just breathe, and everything will be okay. The seizures have always stopped, and we have resources (the right support, doctors, medications). Don’t project your fears and concerns onto your child.”

While the worry never fully disappears, Kiara’s family has learned to regain some control. Every November 15, they celebrate Kiara’s anniversary of being seizure-free, complete with cupcakes and candles. They sing “Happy Seizure-Free to You,” turning the milestone into a positive celebration. Each year, Kiara proudly declares, “I did it again!”

In March we acknowledge Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month, World Teen Mental Wellness Day, World Birth Defects Day, World Hearing Day, World Lymphedema Day, International Women’s Day, World Social Work Day, National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day, Purple Shirt Day and the Transgender Day of Visibility. Read more about each date of significance below, written by members of Grandview Kids’ Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Committee.

Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month

March is Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month in Canada, highlighting the challenges faced by the over 24,000 children under 16 living with this condition. Juvenile arthritis includes various autoimmune and inflammatory diseases that cause joint inflammation and stiffness, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe pain and reduced mobility. The causes of juvenile arthritis are not fully understood but involve the immune system mistakenly attacking the body’s tissues, influenced by genetic and environmental factors.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are vital for managing symptoms and preventing long-term joint damage. Treatment strategies may include medications, physical therapy and sometimes surgery. By raising awareness, we aim to improve understanding and support for these young patients and their families across Canada.

Learn more about Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month here!

World Teen Mental Wellness Day: March 2

This day raises awareness about the mental health challenges teens face, from stress and anxiety to depression and social pressures. It’s a reminder of the importance of open conversations, reducing stigma and ensuring young people have access to the support they need. You can show your support by checking in on the teens in your life, encouraging open discussions about mental well-being and sharing resources that promote self-care and resilience. Small actions (like listening without judgment or normalizing seeking help) can make a big difference.

In 2024, Sam Keane, a former Grandview Kids client and current Grandview Kids employee working on the Family Engagement Team as a Peer Navigator shared his story for Teen Mental Wellness Day. Sam has Spastic Triplegia Cerebral Palsy and, during his time as a client, accessed many of Grandview Kids’ services, such as physiotherapy and occupational therapy, alongside a variety of social programs and activities. These resources helped Sam achieve many personal goals and accomplishments throughout his journey as he transitioned from adolescence to adult life outside of Grandview Kids. Click here to read Sam’s story.

World Birth Defects Day: March 3

March 3 is World Birth Defects Day (WBDD). Birth defects, also known as congenital disorders, are health conditions that develop before birth and affect the structure or function of a baby’s body. These defects can result in physical, intellectual or developmental disabilities, which can vary in severity.

Maritza B., a research coordinator at Grandview Kids, was born with one of the most common birth defects: a cleft lip and palate. A cleft lip and palate occur when the tissues and bones of the face and mouth do not fully fuse, resulting in a gap in the upper lip and/or palate. Maritza is grateful for the opportunity to raise awareness of birth defects and highlight the importance of equitable prevention efforts worldwide. Through the collective efforts of researchers, medical professionals and community members, Maritza believes we can reduce stigma and improve the quality of care for individuals born with birth defects.

World Hearing Day: March 3

World Hearing Day is observed every March 3 to raise awareness about hearing loss and promote ear care globally. The 2025 theme encourages everyone to prioritize their hearing health.

This year, the World Health Organization (WHO) will introduce a new global standard for safe listening in video games and sports. WHO will also launch a school module to teach students about smart listening. These initiatives aim to improve listening habits and integrate hearing care into education.

Learn more about World Hearing Day here!

World Lymphedema Day: March 6

World Lymphedema Day is observed annually on March 6. The day was officially recognized in 2016 after the Lymphatic Education & Research Network (LE&RN) successfully petitioned the United States Senate. In 2025, it will mark the 10th World Lymphedema Day. The day aims to raise awareness of lymphatic diseases worldwide

Lymphatic diseases encompass a range of conditions that affect the lymphatic system, a key part of the immune system responsible for fighting infection and cancer. Common conditions include lymphedema, lipedema, lymphatic malformations, lymphatic filariasis and the lymphatic continuum of diseases. These diseases occur when the lymph vessels are unable to properly drain lymph fluid.

Learn more about World Lymphedema Day here.

International Women’s Day: March 8

March 8, 2025, is International Women’s Day. This year’s theme is “Let’s accelerate action for women’s equality.” Today is a day to celebrate the incredible achievements women have made so far and the ongoing work toward achieving gender parity.

Since its inception in 1911, IWD has served as a symbol of solidarity, uniting individuals to collaborate and drive action that promotes positive change in women’s equality around the world. Let’s reflect on these achievements and take pride in how far we’ve come while staying motivated to continue working toward greater progress.

There are many ways to support women’s equality. Here are a few:

Educate yourself and others on women’s equality and current global issues.
Ask questions, even when others may not.
Raise awareness of women’s equality, rights and achievements.
Get involved in initiatives that advance women’s progress.
Fundraise or donate to women-focused charities and organizations.
Support women-owned businesses.
Thank the powerful women in your life.
Reflect on the positive changes women around the world have made (and are making) to support gender parity.

Let’s come together to support and celebrate International Women’s Day and continue the work of the trailblazers who paved the way before us!

Here are some great quotes to consider:

“There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.” – Michelle Obama
“I think realizing that you’re not alone, that you are standing with millions of your sisters around the world is vital.” – Malala Yousafzai
“Every women’s success should be an inspiration to another. We’re stronger when we cheer each other on.” – Serena Williams
“I’ve never been interested in being invisible and erased.” – Laverne Cox
“What’s the greatest lesson a woman should learn? That since day one, she’s already had everything she needs within herself. It’s the world that convinced her she did not.” – Rupi Kaur

World Social Work Day: March 18

World Social Work Day has been observed annually on the third Tuesday of March since 2007, recognizing the vital contributions of social workers in building inclusive, equitable and sustainable communities. Organized by the International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) and celebrated on March 18 this year, the day serves as a platform to highlight the achievements of social work and advocate for social justice, human rights, and the well-being of individuals and communities.

Each year, a specific theme draws attention to pressing social issues, encouraging collaboration among professionals, organizations and policymakers to drive meaningful change. This year’s theme is “Strengthening Intergenerational Solidarity for Enduring Wellbeing,” which emphasizes the importance of care and respect across generations to support strong communities.

World Social Work Day celebrates the dedication of social workers while raising awareness about the challenges they face and the critical role they play in shaping a more just society.

National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day: March 25

March is National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, and National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Day is on March 25.

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a group of movement disorders that affect a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture. It is the most common physical disability in childhood, and while it affects everyone differently, it can impact muscle tone, coordination and motor skills.

This initiative was started by a CP advocacy group in 2006. Supporters, activists and advocates celebrate by wearing green, using the “#GoGreen4CP” hashtag and donating to organizations that support people with CP.

Here is a quote from a mom whose child is a Grandview Kids Client with CP: “At first, it was difficult and hard to accept that something was wrong with my son. Once I came to terms with this, all the help and support from the Grandview Kids staff made it an easier road.”

Purple Shirt Day: March 26

Purple Shirt Day is an international grassroots movement aimed at raising awareness about epilepsy. On March 26 each year, people around the world wear purple and host events in support of epilepsy awareness.

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes recurring, unprovoked seizures. It is the fourth most common neurological condition worldwide. In people with epilepsy, surges of electrical activity in the brain trigger seizures.

Last year, individuals in more than 85 countries across all continents participated in Purple Day. Canada is the only country to officially recognize March 26 as Purple Day, following the implementation of the Purple Day Act on June 28, 2012.

Transgender Day of Visibility

Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV) is observed annually on March 31 to celebrate transgender people and raise awareness of the discrimination they face worldwide. Founded in 2009 by transgender activist Rachel Crandall, TDOV was created to counter negative narratives often associated with transgender lives. By observing TDOV, individuals and organizations can help foster understanding, reduce stigma and promote inclusivity for transgender people in workplaces, schools and communities.

In March, we acknowledge Holi, St. Patrick’s Day, St. Joseph’s Day and Eid al-Fitr. Read more about each holiday/celebration below, written by members of our Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Committee.

Holi

Holi, one of the most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals in Hindu culture, is marked by joy and enthusiasm around the world. Known as “the festival of colours,” it celebrates the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. Individuals take part in the tradition of painting each other in coloured powders, dancing, singing and sharing festive foods.

Rooted in Hinduism, Holi is derived from the legend of Prahlad and the demoness Holika. It’s a time for forgiveness, letting go of past grievances and fostering peace and harmony. The festival also symbolizes renewal, marking the end of winter and the beginning of new beginnings, as it celebrates the victory of light, love and good fortune over darkness.

St. Patrick’s Day

Celebrated annually on March 17, St. Patrick’s Day originally honoured St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, with religious feasts and services. Born in the late 4th century, St. Patrick was kidnapped at the age of 16 and taken to Ireland as a slave. After escaping, he later returned to the country to convert the Irish to Christianity. By the time of his death, St. Patrick had established monasteries, churches and schools across Ireland. One of the most famous legends surrounding him is that he drove the snakes out of Ireland.

Although rooted in religion, St. Patrick’s Day has evolved into a largely secular holiday, especially in North America, where immigrants transformed it into a celebration of all things Irish. The first St. Patrick’s Day parade was held in Boston in 1737, and in 1962, Chicago began the now-iconic tradition of dyeing its river green for the occasion.

Today, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, particularly in North America and Australia, bring together people of all backgrounds. Those who celebrate typically wear green, participate in parades and indulge in traditional Irish foods like corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie and Irish soda bread.

St. Joseph’s Day

St. Joseph’s Day, also known as the Feast of Saint Joseph, is celebrated annually on March 19. Saint Joseph holds great significance for Christians as the husband of Mary and the stepfather of Jesus. The day is observed with particular importance in Poland and Canada, and it is also recognized as Father’s Day in Italy and Spain. In Switzerland, it is a public holiday.

In Canada, St. Joseph’s Day is especially celebrated in areas with large Italian communities. Traditionally, people wear red and gather for a special meal featuring “lucky” foods. Since the day falls during Lent, the meal typically includes fish instead of meat.

Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr holds deep significance in Islam. It is centred on gratitude, renewal and community connection. The festival marks the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting and spiritual growth that brings Muslims closer to Allah (God) and fosters self-discipline. Eid is a time to express thanks for the strength gained during Ramadan and the blessings of the year.

The celebration brings Muslims together for prayer, feasting and acts of charity, underscoring the importance of giving to the less fortunate, family and community. Islam’s emphasis on thankfulness and forgiveness encourages a fulfilling life, promotes conflict resolution and helps build resilience and harmony among people.

In February, we acknowledge Vasant Panchami, Setsubun, Shab-e Barat, Nirvana Day and Ramadan. Read more about each holiday/celebration below, written by members of our Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Committee.

Vasant Panchami: February 2

Vasant Panchami is a famous festival that marks the end of the winter season and ushers in the springtime. Saraswati is the Hindu goddess of the Vasant Panchami festival. Saraswati is the goddess of wisdom. She embodies the different facets of learning, such as the sciences, arts, crafts and skills. She is often pictured seated on a lotus or a peacock, wearing a white dress. Many honour the Goddess Saraswati by waking up early and dressing in yellow (believed to be her favourite colour), eating and sharing yellow sweets and snacks, and performing rituals (puja) to her deity.

Setsubun: February 3

Setsubun (節分), meaning “seasonal division,” is a traditional Japanese festival celebrated on February 3, 2024, to welcome the arrival of spring according to the Japanese lunar calendar. The festival includes the ritual of Mamemaki, a tradition of throwing roasted soybeans to drive away evil spirits and invite good fortune. While throwing the soybeans, individuals shout, “Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!” (“Devils out, happiness in”) as a means of purifying your space and minds. Although some customs are no longer popular during Setsubun, few people continue to traditionally ornament their homes with fish heads and holy tree leaves at their entrances to deter evil spirits from entering. This ritual symbolizes purification and is a lively family activity that emphasizes unity and tradition. Setsubun holds cultural and spiritual significance, marking the seasonal transition and creating a sense of harmony with nature.

Shab-e Barat: February 13 (depends on moon sighting)

Celebrated on the 15th of Shaban, Shab-e Barat, or the Night of Forgiveness, is a significant Islamic festival. On this night, Muslims worldwide ask forgiveness for their sins from the all-merciful Allah (God in Arabic). Additionally, the night can be used to seek mercy for the deceased and ill family members. It is believed that Allah decides the fortune and the future of every creature of the earth on this night. Muslims across the world celebrate the night differently depending on cultural diversity and local traditions.

Nirvana Day: February 15

Nirvana Day celebrated annually on February 15, holds significant importance in the Buddhist tradition as it commemorates the death of Buddha and his attainment of Nirvana. Buddhists believe in rebirth, meaning that all people are born again and again. During the Buddha’s life, he became enlightened, which means he understood the true nature of everything. So, when he died, he achieved complete Nirvana, which means he was free from ever being reborn again.

On Nirvana Day, Buddhists go to a temple or monastery and reflect deeply on the teachings of Buddha. People may engage in meditation sessions, participate in rituals, and engage in acts of charity and kindness to honour the Buddha’s teachings and legacy. It is also a time to think about impermanence, which means that we remember that people and things are precious, but they do not last forever, so we should enjoy them while we can.

Ramadan (Friday, February 28 to Sunday, March 30)

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a sacred time for Muslims, marking the revelation of the Qur’an. During the month, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food and drink as an act of worship, spiritual discipline, and empathy for the less fortunate. The fast is broken at sunset with prayer and a festive meal called iftar, often shared with family and friends. In addition to the five daily prayers, Muslims also perform the Tarawih night prayers and observe Laylat al-Qadr on the 27th night, believed to be when the Qur’an was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad. Ramadan ends with Eid al-Fitr, a celebration of the fast’s conclusion, featuring meals, gift exchanges and charitable giving to the poor.

In February, we acknowledge Black History Month, World Hijab Day, Eating Disorders Awareness Week, Missing Women’s Memorial March, International Childhood Cancer Day and Pink Shirt Day. Read more about each date of significance below, written by members of our Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Committee.

Black History Month

February is dedicated to observing Black history and celebrating the achievements of Black communities and individuals. This month, people across Canada participate in events and festivities that honour the legacy of Black people in Canada and their communities. The theme for Black History Month 2025 is Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian History and Uplifting Future Generations.

Did you know? Hallie Quinn Brown, born in 1850, was an elocutionist and is considered by many to be the first Black Speech-Language Pathologist in America. Hallie utilized her skills in linguistics to improve the early literacy and language of Black children living on plantations and taught thousands of Black adults the power of using spoken language to enact change for social justice.

Learn more about Black History Month here!

World Hijab Day: February 1

As we approach World Hijab Day on February 1, it presents a meaningful opportunity for us at Grandview Kids to enhance our understanding and appreciation of the cultural and religious practices of our Muslim colleagues, clients and their families.

Initiated by Nazma Khan in 2013, World Hijab Day is dedicated to raising awareness and fostering understanding about the hijab, which is a head covering worn by many Muslim women as part of Islamic modesty. This practice often includes wearing loosely fitted clothing to avoid attracting attention from non-mahram (men whom they can marry). At Grandview Kids, recognizing the significance of the hijab is crucial in ensuring our Muslim clients, caregivers and staff feel safe, respected and free from fear.

Staff member, Fadia, wearing the Hijab at Grandview Kids.

We encourage open and respectful dialogues about the cultural and religious importance of the hijab, and we invite our staff to engage in this cultural experience. If any staff member is interested in wearing the hijab for a period of time as a gesture of solidarity or understanding, we warmly encourage them to reach out to their Muslim colleagues. Our Muslim staff members would be delighted to share their experiences and even bring a hijab for those interested to try out. This gesture can be a powerful way to connect, understand and show support.

Eating Disorders Awareness Week: February 1 to 7

Since 2020, Eating Disorders Awareness Week has provided an opportunity to raise awareness about various types of eating disorders which can affect individuals of all demographics. Though Eating Disorders Awareness Week has only been officially recognized since 2020, it has existed since 1986.

It’s interesting to note that eating disorders can be caused both by medical conditions and socioeconomic conditions. According to Statistics Canada, in 2022, 6.9 million Canadians experienced food insecurity, 1.6 million of whom were children. This food insecurity can often lead to the development of eating disorders as well.

There are several types of eating disorders, though one of the most common is anorexia or anorexia nervosa, which is a psychiatric condition in which a patient restricts how much food they eat based on their energy needs. These individuals tend to eat less and exercise more, resulting in these individuals becoming extremely underweight, which can lead to several additional medical complications. This is just one example, though there are many others.

If you or someone you know is struggling with any type of eating disorder, or if you are interested in learning more about learning disorders, please see our additional resources below, or please reach out to your healthcare provider.

Resources

Missing Women’s Memorial March: February 14

The Missing Women’s Memorial March occurs on February 14 to honour the lives of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls across Canada and the USA. The event originated in downtown Vancouver’s eastside following the murder of a local Indigenous woman in 1992. Since then, it has grown to become an annual march to recognize all missing indigenous women and girls around the globe.

Participants in the Women’s March believe that it stands for survival and resilience and symbolizes the reclamation of dignity that has been denied to many women in Canada who identify as part of a marginalized group. Although originating in Vancouver, provinces all over Canada now hold annual marches to honour and bring visibility to these missing women and girls. To find out more information on marches for 2025, be sure to research marches in your community.

International Childhood Cancer Day: February 15

International Childhood Cancer Day is a global collaborative campaign to raise awareness about childhood cancer, and to express support for children and adolescents with cancer, the survivors and their families.

The day promotes increased appreciation and deeper understanding of issues and challenges relevant to childhood cancer and impacting on children/adolescents with cancer, the survivors, their families and society as a whole. It also spotlights the need for more equitable and better access to treatment and care for all children with cancer everywhere. As a community that supports children and youth, we stand with the World Health Organization Initiative for Childhood Cancer – striving for 60% survival globally by 2030.

Pink Shirt Day: February 26

Pink Shirt Day originated in 2007 in Coldbrook, Nova Scotia, when two grade 12 students bought 50 pink shirts to support a new student who was bullied for wearing one. The next day, most students wore pink, leading to the birth of Pink Shirt Day. In recognition of this event, Nova Scotia declared the second Thursday of September as “Stand Up Against Bullying Day,” and the movement spread globally, with British Columbia declaring February 27 as Anti-Bullying Day in 2008 and the United Nations recognizing May 4 as Anti-Bullying Day in 2012.

In Canada, Pink Shirt Day is now celebrated on the last Wednesday of February, raising awareness about bullying prevention, kindness, and inclusion, with the movement continuing to grow.

Learn more about Pink Shirt Day here!